The Flower Press

Foraging for material is an emerging trend in floral design and autumn is the perfect time to appreciate it here in Northern Colorado. For Jacqueline Thain of Rue and Pear Flower Co., based out of Loveland, gathering materials from the landscape isn’t just economical or creative; it’s a mindful practice that adds depth, contrast, and authenticity to her work. In this Q&A, Jacqueline shares how  foraging enriches her artistry—and how a little wildness can beautifully transform intentional design.

Thanks for taking your time and sharing your insights about foraging with me Jacqueline!

Do you often use foraged material in your floral design work?

Thanks for thinking of me! And, yes! I went foraging today. But it was cut short because my youngest stepped on a hornet nest!

Yikes! So there’s some risk involved, ha ha. I’m wondering about why you work with foraged material in your design work? How do you go about it?

When I work with foraged materials, it usually happens in one of two ways:

1. I already know the material exists and where to find it, so it becomes part of my mental catalog.
2. I sense something is missing-sometimes a specific need, other times just intuition- and I go searching, trusting I’ll be able to find the right element. 

Is it a creative choice or one of necessity?

Both

Do clients notice and/or enjoy the addition of foraged material?

It’s interesting- if a foraged element is transformed or goes unrecognized, people usually love it. I have one client who hates Dock, but I love working with it. To me it’s very similar to Atriplex and Amaranthus. I’ve even used Dock in designs for her, and she didn’t notice until I pointed it out. She begrudgingly admitted it was beautiful. 

Some people, though, will label it a “weed” and make comment. I think it depends on the personality of the person and whether or not they previously labeled the plant a weed. 

How would you describe the impact of this material in your design work- more wild, natural feeling, etc.? 

I am a very intentional designer, so when I use foraged material, it’s always in alignment with the overall vision. Take Curly Dock for example. It can look elegant rather than wild or weedy. 

Are foraged material essential ingredients in your floral “recipes”?

To me, my role is to take raw material, whether from the field, the tunnel, or foraged and transform it into something that is the desired outcome for both myself and my clients.